Far Shore Merchants, brand owners of Peggy Dark Rum, are proud to announce their sponsorship of a new sidecar pairing at Team Founds Racing at the Isle of Man TT Races in 2024.

Running alongside reigning British F2 Sidecar Champions Pete Founds and Jevan Walmsley will be two-time time podium finisher Alan Founds, who is joined this year by his nephew Rhys Gibbons.

It will be a TT debut for Rhys, who is grandson to Des Founds, father of Pete and Alan, and who himself completed in 29 Isle of Man TT Races in the 1980s and 1990s.

“We jumped at the opportunity when approached by Team Founds to consider sponsorship of this winning sidecar team,” said Terry van Rhyn, MD of Far Shore Merchants Ltd.

“Apart from having a support team of rum-lovers with great taste, Team Founds epitomises the dedication and passion that is needed to be successful at an event like the TT.

“It’s remarkable that Rhys will be the third generation to face the famous 37.73 mile course and continue the amazing Founds’ family tradition. They have set their sights high and are confident of getting into the top 10 with their Team Founds Racing LCR Yamaha. We wish them all the best and will be cheering them on from the sidelines.”

Hannah Cheyne from Team Founds Racing, added, “We are delighted to have Peggy Dark Rum on board as a sponsor for the Isle of Man TT Races in 2024.

“For our team, rum isn’t just a drink; it’s part of a long-standing tradition that fuels the spirit of the team’s most ardent supporters – the wives, girlfriends, mothers and sisters – who watch anxiously from the Grandstand year after year. It has become customary for us to share a tot of rum before the lads set off down Bray Hill. So, for us, pairing with Peggy Rum couldn’t be more appropriate.”

Keep an eye out for race times on the TT Schedule.

Over the past three years, the white rum category in the United Kingdom and Europe has experienced a fascinating transformation, with premium craft white rums emerging as a significant trendsetter. Traditionally, white rum was associated with lower quality and priced accordingly. However, this perception has undergone a remarkable shift. Mixologists and bartenders are now seeking out premium white rums to elevate their cocktail creations. Today, it’s all about enhancing the flavour profile of cocktails with high-quality, premium white rums.

Premium quality white rum offers consumers a sophisticated drinking experience characterized by exceptional taste, craftsmanship, and versatility.

Premium unflavoured craft white rums have been on the rise, and many experts are comparing this trend to the premiumisation of tequila and vodka in recent years. Consumers are becoming more discerning, seeking out unique and high-quality spirits, and white rum is no exception to this trend.

The steady increase in sales and volume of white rum in the UK and Europe have shown steady growth. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the rising popularity of premium craft white rums, an increase in cocktail culture, and a growing interest in high-quality spirits among consumers.

In addition, there has been a noticeable shift in consumer preferences towards premium white rums. As consumers become more adventurous with their drink choices, they are willing to explore new and exciting options, including premium craft white rums.

The ever-evolving cocktail culture has played a significant role in driving the demand for premium white rums. Mixologists and bartenders are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to elevate their cocktails, and premium white rum has become a staple ingredient in many modern cocktail recipes.

Looking ahead to the next five years, the future of the white rum category in the UK and EU looks promising, with this steady growth trend expected to continue. The rising demand for premium spirits is expected to continue growing as consumers become more discerning and adventurous with their drink choices.

Pure, unflavoured premium white rum production is witnessing a wave of innovation, with distillers and producers experimenting with production techniques, and packaging formats to cater to changing consumer preferences. We will continue to probably see the expansion of the cocktail culture is expected to continue thriving, driving the demand for premium white rums as consumers seek out unique and exciting drink experiences.

Overall, premium quality white rum offers consumers a sophisticated and enjoyable drinking experience, with a complex flavour profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

I believe that premium white rum is poised to become a staple in bars and households alike, following in the footsteps of premium vodka and tequila.

Premium white rum offers a complex flavour profile with notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, caramel, and oak, resulting in a rich and satisfying drinking experience. Craft distilleries will naturally lead the way and there are already sipping white rums on the market with complex flavour profiles that will accommodate all palates.